The Prime Minister Will Appoint and Dismiss the NSS Director and Deputy Directors: New Draft Law

The Government of Armenia approved a package of unreported issues, endorsing legislative initiatives on amending the law on "Service in the National Security Bodies," changes to the law on "National Security Bodies," and additions to the law on the "Disciplinary Code of the Armed Forces of the Republic of Armenia."

The proposal suggests that the Director and Deputy Directors of the National Security Service (NSS) should henceforth be appointed and dismissed not by the President upon the Prime Minister's recommendation, but directly by the Prime Minister.

The Ministry of Justice noted in the justification for the draft that under the current regulations, the positions of the NSS Director and Deputies are considered military service posts, while the service is an entity subordinate to the Prime Minister. It is stated that there is a need to revise the existing regulations so that these individuals are appointed and dismissed by the Prime Minister, taking into account the Service's subordination to him.

"This will ensure compliance with the general logic of public service regarding the appointment and dismissal procedures of individuals holding public administrative positions as per Article 6 of the Law on Public Service," the justification adds.

After the proposed changes are adopted, the NSS Director and Deputy Directors will be considered individuals holding public office, while other national security personnel will hold military positions. Thus, appropriate amendments will also be made to the "Disciplinary Code of the Armed Forces of the Republic of Armenia." The draft has been deemed urgent, and the parliament will discuss the issue in an expedited manner.